Gemotions

From the moment the email landed, Michael felt a strange tremor run through him. He reread the announcement, his eyes darting back and forth across the screen like trapped insects. The office, usually a haven of routine, now felt like a cage closing in.

He slammed his hands on his desk, then instantly regretted it, wincing at the sharp sound. A throbbing headache bloomed behind his eyes, a physical manifestation of his fear. He felt a desperate need to be in control.

He got up and started pacing. He muttered about the unfairness of it all. He thought of his rival, Jessica, always so poised and unflappable. He imagined her already celebrating, probably with a glass of champagne. He felt as though he might disintegrate.